Simon Hopkinson

Simon Hopkinson

About Simon Hopkinson

My paintings arise from a longstanding interest in the British urban landscape. I think that unpopular features like concrete and decay are often beautiful, despite representing modern malaise. I tend to avoid recognised attractions, seeking out the views which more reflect my spirit.
Using my photographs as a guide, I try to create something freer and more textured than photo realism whilst retaining the atmosphere of the photographed scene. I am more concerned with mood and mystery than with shape and design.

Education:

Growing up in Yorkshire, I began taking photographs of the surrounding countryside aged 12, moving on to cityscapes in my mid teens. After settling in Bristol to study at the university, I explored some of the city's less cherished spots, using the resultant photos as the basis for my first acrylic on canvas paintings in 1994. I am entirely self taught.

Events:

Exhibitions:

2016
Poole Lighthouse in April

2015
Exeter Picturehouse 3rd March to 12th April

2014
The Flavel Arts Centre Dartmouth December to January
Brick Lane Gallery Contemporary Painting September
Exeter Community Centre May, June and July
Southville Centre Bristol in July
Exeter Community Centre in January
RE Bucheli Fine Art in January
Amerge Collective - Online prints Gallery
South West Artworks - A permanent online portfolio

2013
R E Bucheli Fine Art Bristol Nov to Jan 2014
Exeter Community Centre in October
Phoenix Exeter in August
Southville Centre Bristol in July
The Grant Bradley Gallery 'New Visions III" Bristol in June
R E Bucheli Fine Art in June
The Grant Bradley Gallery Bristol in March
Whole Baked Cafe Bristol in March
Exeter Community Centre ongoing throughout this year
R E Bucheli Fine Art Bristol in January